There's no "sure thing" in life -- or in birth. But planning, preparing, learning, and knowing which questions to ask can help make the birth you want more likely to happen.

There are so many variables that exist when a person goes into labor and gives birth; it's impossible to control them all. What you can control (for the most part) is how you participate in the process, which includes getting needed information at the right time. The following five questions can help you do just that. Be sure to share these questions with your birth support team, including your partner/spouse, support people, and doula.

It can be hard to stand up for what you want, and even for things you need. This is especially true when you're in the middle of labor -- a time when most of your concentration is focused on coping with contractions. And yet, for a lot of people and in many hospitals and birthing centers, labor is the time when knowing how to advocate for yourself is particularly important. To get the most of what you want and need in labor and birth, consider the following tips.

Tensing up your body's muscles is a natural response to stress and pain. But did you know that doing so actually causes more pain and stress? If you can learn to a) recognize when you're tensing up, and then b) release the tension, you can reduce the amount of overall pain and stress you feel. Of

With the "Big Game" coming up this Sunday, it seems like everyone has football on the brain. So of course I thought, there's no better time to talk about birth and football than right now! If you're a diehard football fan and expecting a baby soon, this post is for you. Maybe you're feeling a

Have you ever sat and talked with a friend while you waited and noticed that the time flew by? Have you ever struggled more through a run or gym session when there isn't any music playing? Do you find yourself turning down the radio in your car when you are trying to figure out where you're going?

IV stands for "intravenous," and though many of use it as a noun ("Did you have an IV?"), it's technically an adjective and often paired with a noun like fluid, drip, medication, or injection. I promise this post is not about grammar, but it's important to understand the language and usage of

People who are in labor, from early labor up to the point of pushing, often instinctively find ways to cope with contractions as a way to reduce pain. This is true for those who do not use pain medication as well as for those who do. In labor, a person's

Have you thought about what you'll use to keep you hydrated and energized during labor and birth? There are lots of ready-made products you can buy that work great in labor, like granola/protein/energy bars, electrolyte drinks, coconut water, and enduranc

According to retailers, February is the month of love. Instead of bucking this seasonal trend, we're going to run with it at Giving Birth with Confidence -- but with a twist. We're going to focus less on chocolates and jewelry and more what's at the heart

About the Blog Manager

Cara Terreri is a Lamaze Certified Childbirth Educator, certified DONA doula, and a professional writer, editor, and content specialist. She has been part of the Lamaze International team since 2004. Cara manages and writes for the Lamaze parents’ blog, Giving Birth With Confidence. She lives and works in the Orlando, FL, area with her husband and three children.